I prefer top stitch needles dipped in titanium from Superior Threads. Seems to me these last the longest. Before I started quilting I used a universal point for most fabrics except knits, the idea being a more rounded point would penetrate between the weave while a sharper needle point would stab individual threads and thus damage the fabric. For me the exact opposite is true. In terms of size I use 70 or 80 for piecing, and 90 for quilting. I used cotton 50 weight thread for most piecing until I learned about Mara 120 polyester thread available at Waawak Sewing Supply. It works well for me and has saved me lots of money.